Cold War Kids - Robbers And Cowards

Before releasing this 2006 full-length album, California's Cold War Kids toured relentlessly, released some EP's, and whipped the nation's youth into an evangelical rock-&-roll frenzy with their charismatic stagecraft and songsmithery, which updates classic rock conventions with a bit of angular, post-punk experimentation. Judging by the tunes here, the enthusiasm is well-deserved. A propulsive rhythm section and Nathan Willett's ardent vocals make every song sound like some indie-rock version of gospel music, and that's not even taking into account the lyrics, which offer up religious and literary references that would be almost unbearable in band less genuine. The album also benefits from a vintage, tube-amp/analog-tape warmth that makes the music even more emotionally accessible. The highlight here is "Hang Me Up to Dry," on which Willett's bluesy wail makes it seem as if he's singing to save his very soul--or yours.
(RS)